Controlling Crystal Defects with Electric Fields

Researchers from the University of Toronto, Dalhousie University, Iowa State University, and Peking University have used electric fields to control the motion of material defects in zinc sulfide crystals. The study provides direct evidence of dislocation dynamics controlled by a non-mechanical stimulus, which has been an open question since the 1960s. The researchers observed dislocations moving back and forth while changing the direction of the electric field. The electric-field-controlled dislocation motion may be used to enhance the mechanical reliability and formability of semiconductors and reduce defect density in semiconductors, insulators, and aged devices.